With Woods withdrawing on Tuesday, Whitehead will take his spot at the June 16-19 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club in suburban Washington.

“I’m speechless,” Whitehead said by phone Tuesday afternoon. “I guess this means a couple more people with know my name.”

Whitehead, a 23-year-old who just completed his senior season at Rice, finished as first alternate at sectional qualifying Monday at Dallas Athletic Club’s Blue Course. Whitehead shot a rounds of 68-68—136.

Whitehead turned pro after failing to advance in last month’s NCAA regional play.